Assistant Instructor Position at PDX Vox

Opening: Instructor-in-Training Position Start Date: September 17, 2022 About the Program Based in Portland, Oregon, PDX Vox is a recreational singing class and non- audition performance program that provides the experience of singing a cappella music to a wide range of singers. Each group works on 5 vocal arrangements together each week: 2 of these songs are learned by all of the groups, and 3 of these songs are specific to the 20-person weekly group. The philosophy of PDX Vox is to help singers develop a weekly singing practice, work as a team on challenging vocal arrangements, improve their vocal and music skills gradually, and build connections with other music lovers. Responsibilities will include: leading the singers in vocal warm-ups teaching singers about basic vocal technique leading sectionals at weekly rehearsals conducting the group on at least one song working with lead instructor to plan and teach simple choreography keeping the group informed and motivated through weekly email updates, including audio clips from rehearsal meeting with mentor-instructor weekly, either in person or by phone sitting in on 1-2 other PDX Vox rehearsals to observe the other instructors in action optional: arranging a song for the group Timeline Teaching Dates for the Semester Mondays, September 19th - December 12th, 2022, 7:00 – 9:00 pm. Other Teaching Dates - required: Saturday, September 17th, 1:00 – 5:00 pm (all-group retreat) Saturday, October 22nd,, time to be determined (all-group rehearsal) Saturday, December 10th, 3:00 – 5:00 (all-group performance; staff available 1:30 – 6:00pm) Qualifications Musical: Experience singing contemporary pop a cappella music and directing a cappella groups (rather than or in addition to traditional choirs) Solid foundation in vocal technique, music theory, vocal harmony Experience as a music performer – ideally as a band member Basic ability on piano, to play vocal parts in treble, tenor and bass clef Ability to write a cappella arrangements a plus Experience with vocal percussion a plus Pedagogical / Interpersonal: Experience and skills in leading, directing and facilitating groups; ability to foster collaboration, fellowship and group spirit Ability to provide positive, supportive, and encouraging coaching to beginning and intermediate singers Ability to teach music using techniques that balance fun with musical progress and improvement Ability to respond to the needs to adult learners with a range of musical skills and experiences, and to target instruction to individual needs within a group setting Compensation: The instructor-in- training will be paid a total of $25 / hour for teaching hours and meeting time.